(Hot Arid) (Example: Alice Springs), and most of the interior of middle Australia)

MAIN CHARACTERISTICS:

* Low humidity year round.

* High diurnal (day/night) temperature range.

* At least two (usually four) distinct seasons.

* Low rainfall.

* Very hot summers common.

* Cold winters.

* Hot, dry winds in summer.

* Cool to cold dry winds in winter.

KEY DESIGN PURPOSES:

* Use passive solar principles with well insulated thermal mass.

* Maximise night time cooling in summer.

* Consider convective (stack) ventilation, which vents rising hot air while drawing in cooler air.

* Build more compact shaped buildings with good cross ventilation for summer.

* Maximise solar access, exposure to cooling breezes or cool air drainage, and protection from strong winter (cold) and summer (dusty) winds.

* Shade all east & west glass in summer.

* Provide shaded outdoor living areas.

* Consider adjustable shading to control solar access.

* Auxiliary heating may be required in extreme climates. Use renewable energy sources.

* Use evaporative cooling if required.

* Avoid air-conditioning.

* Use reflective insulation for effective summer and winter application.

* Use bulk insulation for ceilings, walls and exposed floors.

* Use garden ponds and water features in shaded outdoor courtyards to provide evaporative cooling.

* Draught seal thoroughly. Use airlocks to entries.

No examples available at present.